Write “U.S. Department of State” on the payee line of your check or money order and include the applicant’s full name and date of birth on the front.
Who do you write the cheque to for passport?
Make your check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State.” This applies to all passport renewals and new applications within the United States.
Slip the applicant’s full legal name and date of birth onto the memo line or front of the check. No abbreviations—those cause delays. If you’re outside the U.S., double-check the nearest embassy or consulate’s rules.
Can I use personal check for passport renewal?
Yes, U.S. personal checks are accepted for passport renewals. They must be drawn on a U.S. bank and made payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
Print the applicant’s full name and date of birth clearly on the check. Personal checks clear through the Federal Reserve in about 7–10 business days. Need it faster? A certified check or money order moves quicker.
Can I pay for my passport renewal by cheque?
Yes, you can pay by check for passport renewal by mail. Accepted forms include personal, certified, cashier’s, and traveler’s checks, all payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
This covers standard renewals sent through the mail. At a Post Office, you can also use cash or card for fees and photos. Always confirm what’s accepted if you’re using a service like Check and Send—rules vary by location.
How do I put money on my passport renewal?
Use a personal, certified, cashier’s, or traveler’s check payable to “U.S. Department of State,” or a U.S. Postal Money Order. Include fees for photos or expedited service if required.
- Write the applicant’s full name and date of birth on the front.
- Mail the check or money order with your completed Form DS-82 and supporting documents.
- Keep a copy of your application and payment method—just in case.
Can you pay for a passport with cash at Post Office?
Yes, cash is accepted for passport fees and photo services at participating Post Offices. Checks and card payments are also accepted for these fees.
Cash won’t work for every online service, though. Always check the USPS or U.S. Department of State website before you head out. Some locations even require appointments for certain services.
How can I check my passport status online?
Use the U.S. Department of State’s online portal at travel.state.gov to track your passport application. Enter your 15-digit application number and date of birth to view your status.
You’ll see updates from “received” all the way to “shipped.” Standard renewals take about 6–8 weeks as of 2026. If yours is stuck, the National Passport Information Center can help.
How much is a check and send passport?
As of 2026, the Check and Send service adds £16.00 to the application fee for standard adult renewals. This service is not available online and must be used at a participating Post Office.
The total comes to £82.50 plus the £16.00 service charge. Photos cost extra. If you qualify for a free passport, the service is free. Always confirm the price at your local Post Office before you apply.
How much is a same day passport?
A same-day passport via a private expediting agency costs around $195, including a $110 application fee, $35 execution fee, and $60 expedited service. Government agencies don’t offer true same-day service.
That total doesn’t include travel, parking, or photo fees, which can add $30–$100. To qualify, you’ll need to visit a passport agency in person with proof of urgent travel. Arrive early and bring every required document.
Can I send my old passport with a first class stamp?
Yes, you can return your old passport with a first-class stamp, but a tracked or signed-for service is strongly recommended. Include a stamped, self-addressed envelope with your application.
Use a large letter stamp for standard size passports. Add a tracking number to your return envelope and keep the receipt. It’s the only way to be sure your old passport doesn’t vanish in the mail. Royal Mail tracking is your friend here.
Who do I make the cheque payable to when renewing a passport?
Make your check or money order payable to “U.S. Department of State.” This applies to all U.S. passport renewals and new applications submitted by mail.
Write the applicant’s full name and date of birth on the front. Use a black or blue pen and print clearly. Nicknames or abbreviations slow things down—don’t use them.
How much does a renewal passport cost?
A standard adult passport renewal costs $130 for a 36-page book as of 2026. For a 60-page book, the fee is $160.
These fees come straight from the U.S. Department of State and don’t cover extras like faster processing or photos. Always verify the current fee on the U.S. Department of State travel website before you send anything in.
How long does a passport renewal take?
As of 2026, standard adult passport renewals take 6 to 8 weeks to process. Expedited service cuts that down to 2 to 3 weeks for an extra $60 fee.
Timing can shift based on how busy they are and the time of year. The Department of State’s online status checker at travel.state.gov keeps you updated. Need it yesterday? Visit a passport agency in person with proof of travel.
What form of payment is accepted for passport?
Accepted payments include personal, certified, cashier’s, and traveler’s checks, money orders, and credit/debit cards for fees and photos. All checks must be payable to “U.S. Department of State.”
Cash works only at Post Offices for in-person applications and photo services. Online applications need a check, money order, or card payment. When in doubt, confirm what’s accepted before you hit submit.
Can I visit passport office without appointment?
Most passport agencies accept walk-ins when possible, but appointments are strongly recommended. Some locations prioritize appointments for urgent travel.
No appointment? Expect a wait. Bring every document you need and proof of travel if you’re after expedited service. Check the U.S. Department of State website for the nearest agency and its current walk-in policy.
Can I get a same day passport?
You cannot get a true same-day passport from a government agency, but private expediting services can deliver a passport within 24 hours. Government agencies issue passports within 8 hours only on rare, pre-approved emergency cases.
Private services charge a premium fee and require in-person submission with proof of urgent travel. Get there early and bring every document they ask for. It’s the fastest way to get a passport when every minute counts.
